Research and Development (R&D) is no longer a simple corporate department, but the driving force behind transformation and competitiveness in our ever-evolving global market. While innovation was once conceived as a linear process, today in EGLA it is rather a dynamic system that requires a global vision and the ability to think and act holistically. From the embryonic stage of an idea to its full realization and maintenance on the market, the EGLA approach to R&D is comprehensive and forward-looking, embracing the entire life cycle of a product or service.
The success of an R&D project depends largely on the combination of two fundamental elements: development of ideas and analytical capabilities, characteristics that are well embodied in EGLA R&D teams all over the World: in Italy, Mexico, China seats. The former skill allows complex problems to be broken down into manageable components, while the latter provides the tools to find effective solutions. However, in an environment where challenges arise with increasing rapidity, analysis alone is not enough. Reactivity is needed, meaning a quick response to market changes, customer needs, and unexpected failures.
The innovation attitude/mindset: diversity and collaboration
The true leap in R&D occurs when we abandon the idea of the lone genius in favor of a collaborative approach: when we are called to cope with complex challenges, we can win if we approach thinking like many, but acting united like one. Progress does not arise from the mind of a single individual, though from the complementarity of ideas, skills, and perspectives. This is the concept of intersection, where different disciplines and points of view meet to generate innovative solutions. The effectiveness of R&D teams in EGLA are the perfect expressions of this philosophy: they are composed of diverse and complementary individuals, united by expertise, unity, and team pride.
To stimulate creativity and innovation, it is essential to encourage lateral thinking, the ability to look at problems from unusual angles. This is the approach encouraged within EGLA’s R&D team, which thrives on mixing and matching seemingly distant ideas and concepts. Our organization must maintain a keen eye and an insatiable curiosity, knowing that inspiration can come from anywhere. Often, the most revolutionary solutions arise from drawing insights from a wide range of industries, such as the pharmaceutical industry can teach precision methods, the packaging industry can inspire material efficiency, or the paper industry can offer lessons in sustainability and recycling. This cross-fertilization is the lifeblood of innovation.
Culture of risk and courage: the essence of discovery
EGLA believes that an authentic R&D culture cannot exist without the courage to set limits and not be afraid to make mistakes. Failure is not the end of the journey, but a fundamental step towards learning and improvement. The most important discoveries in history have often been the result of failed attempts or unexpected results. Embracing failure as an opportunity is what distinguishes leaders from followers. It’s the mindset of those who know that, to achieve great things, sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.
We can summarize EGLA’s attitude in R&D with the words “Throw your heart over the fence”; for EGLA’s R&D teams it means committing wholeheartedly to a project, overcoming fears and uncertainties, and letting courage and passion guide action. This is the only way we can push beyond what is known, exploring new frontiers, creating value and transforming the future.
(by Paola Telò)
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